It probably doesn't hurt owner Joe Van Aelstyn's case that the building is both old AND iconic.

Aelstyn claims the building is historic, not just for its exterior design and age, but also for its importance as a continually running small commerical enterprise.

Essentially, that makes it relevant culturally, argues Van Aelstyn, who also argues that the simple, so-called "Boomtown" architectural design makes it nearly unique in the city and worthy of the designation.

The building, which is currently under a raze order from the city, housed the Maid-Rite for 68 years. It started out as a shop for builder Peter Walvick in 1881.